Engadget has posted the above screenshot which shows Verizon training material with evidence of a shared data plan being implemented.

We’ve been told that training material for an update to the outfit’s internal account management application includes screenshots (one of which you can see [below]) that show a new section labeled “account level data plans.” The new section apparently shows an account level charge for data allowance and a 9.99 charge per line.

Verizon has hinted that 2012 may be the year shared data plans finally come to fruition.

Consumers benefit from this because as of right now, every data connected device requires its own plan/contract. For example, if you own a Verizon iPhone, Verizon iPad and a USB modem, your currently have accounts for each, where as if a shared data plan is used, the customer can have one pool of data for all of those devices. Of course this can all be worse if the price isn’t right.